NusantaraPol - Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) visited Space X in Boca Chica, United States, Saturday (14/05/2022). On that occasion, President Jokowi discussed and reviewed the Space X rocket production plant with Elon Musk, the founder of Space X.

The President arrived at the Stargate Space X Building at around 10:30 am local time and was greeted by Elon Musk. President Jokowi and Elon Musk had a meeting before going around to see the Space X rocket production facility.

The President said that this visit was a follow-up to his order to the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan to speak with Elon.

"Following up to my order to talk to Elon about investment, technology, innovation, and now I'm here and meet directly with Elon to discuss future collaborations," said the President.

On the same occasion, Elon Musk said he was very interested in the future of Indonesia. He noted that the country looks very optimistic and has positive energy.

"I think Indonesia has great potential, and I think we, through Tesla and Space X, will try some collaborations with Indonesia," said Elon Musk.

President Jokowi visited Space X and met Elon Musk in Boca Chica, USA, Saturday (14/05/2022) (Photo: BPMI Setpres/Laily Rachev)

Elon stated that his party would look closely at Indonesia's various potential and follow up with cooperation with the country.

"Moreover, Indonesia has a large population and continues to grow. This is good because we need a lot of people in the future,” said Elon.

"I think he is very interested in coming to Indonesia immediately, and I have told him to come to Indonesia," said President Jokowi.

Responding to President Jokowi's invitation to come to Indonesia, Elon Musk said he plans to go in November this year.

"Hopefully in November. Thank you for the invitation," said Elon.

NusantaraPol - Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has called for an immediate end to the Ukraine War. The President emphasized this statement at the ASEAN-US Special Summit held at the US Department of State, Washington DC, Friday (13/05/2022).

According to President Jokowi, the war in Ukraine has created a humanitarian tragedy and worsened the world economy. Prices of food, energy, and inflation rate have increased, severely weighing on the economy and slowing the achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) in developing and least developed countries.

“When the world ought to quickly recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, the world is facing a new problem, the war in Ukraine. The world needs cooperation and collaboration, but rivalry and confrontation are getting sharper. When the world needs stronger multilateralism, it is unilateralism that is getting more and more prominent," said President Jokowi.

	President Jokowi attends the ASEAN-US Special Summit at the United States Department of Foreign Affairs, Washington DC, Friday (13/05/2022). (Photo: BPMI Setpres/Laily Rachev).

Furthermore, the President also said that the war in Ukraine has weakened multilateralism and has the potential to divide relations between countries.

“War won't benefit anyone. The world has no other choice but to stop the war right now. Every country and leader has the responsibility to create an enabling environment so that war can be stopped and peace can be realized," said the President.

Economic growth, according to President Jokowi, is also concerning. The International Monetary Fund or IMF has lowered its prediction for economic growth in emerging and developing Asia by 0.5 percent in 2022 and 0.2 percent in 2023. And the World Bank has reduced its projection for economic growth in several ASEAN countries to 1.2 percent.

"For some ASEAN members, a 10 percent increase in oil prices will result in a 0.7 percent decrease in national income, and an increase in wheat prices will result in a 1 percent increase in poverty," the President explained.

The President reiterated, "For more than five decades, ASEAN has continued to build an inclusive security architecture, put forward a collaboration paradigm, and encourage a habit of dialogue and rules-based orders. We encourage the same spirit in the Indo-Pacific through the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific," explained the President.

At the Special Summit attended by President Joe Biden and the ASEAN countries' leaders, President Jokowi welcomed America's initiative through the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF).

“Of course, cooperation under IPEF must be inclusive. I hope there is a synergy between IPEF and the implementation of priority cooperation in the AOIP (ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific)," said President Jokowi.

When Indonesia becomes the chair of ASEAN next year, President Jokowi also conveys his plan to hold the Indo-Pacific Infrastructure Forum. "I look forward to the participation of the United States in the forum," concluded the President.

Also accompanying President Jokowi at the ASEAN-US Special Summit were Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi, Minister of Trade Muhammad Lutfi, and Indonesian Ambassador to the US Rosan Roeslani.

NusantaraPol - A spokesperson for the Indonesian Ministry of Health, Siti Nadia Tarmizi, said the number of patients who died from acute hepatitis was reported to have increased from three to five people.

Nadia said the 5 patients who died were in DKI Jakarta, East Java, and West Sumatra. 

"5 people died in DKI Jakarta, East Java, and West Sumatra," said Nadia when contacted by Kompas.com on Tuesday (10/5/2022).

She also said that as many as 15 cases of acute hepatitis were detected in 5 provinces, namely DKI Jakarta, West Java, East Java, West Sumatra, and Bangka Belitung. Until now, continued Nadia, several patients, the majority aged 1 to 6 years old, are still being treated.

"11 people from DKI Jakarta, West Sumatra 1, East Java 1, Bangka Belitung 1, and West Java 1," she said.

Previously, Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin revealed 15 cases of acute hepatitis in Indonesia as of Monday (9/5/2022). Budi said that his party had issued a circular letter addressed to all hospitals and health offices to carry out surveillance related to this case as of April 27, 2022.

Minister of Health Budi G. Sadikin gives a press statement at the Presidential Office, Jakarta, Monday (09/05/2022). Photo: Public Relations Secretariat / Agung.

This was done four days after the World Health Organization (WHO) announced an outbreak of acute hepatitis in Europe on April 23, 2022.

"Until today, there are 15 cases in Indonesia," said Budi at a press conference on the virtual PPKM (Indonesia's COVID-19 restriction policy) evaluation meeting.

He also revealed that the highest number of cases of acute hepatitis occurred in the UK. The country confirmed as many as 115 patients. In addition, this case also occurred in Italy, Spain, and the United States. 

Budi said that his party had discussed with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States and Britain after Eid al-Fitr. However, there is no definite answer regarding this mysterious case of acute hepatitis. 

"And we have received information. It is not yet certain what virus is 100 percent causing this acute hepatitis," said Budi. 

He asked the public to take precautions by diligently washing their hands and ensuring cleanness. The virus that causes acute hepatitis is transmitted through food intake, especially in children under 16 years. 

"So we make sure what goes into our children is clean because this (virus) attacks (children) under 16 years old and (especially) under five years old," explained Budi.

Epidemiologist and Global Public Health practitioner Dicky Budiman said the mysterious acute hepatitis disease is unlikely to develop into a pandemic like COVID-19. 

"The potential is small to become a pandemic. If it becomes an epidemic, it can," said Dicky to Kompas.com, Tuesday (10/5/2022). 

According to him, there are several criteria that make a disease become a pandemic. 

"When it comes to diseases that cause pandemics, apart from being generally new diseases, they must be fast in transmission, usually through the respiratory tract, droplets," he said. 

"In this regard, I don't see the potential for hepatitis, which is still mysterious, to become a pandemic," he continued. 

Although it does not have the potential to become a pandemic, Dicky said, this disease could actually be the impact of the pandemic that occurred. 

"That this is the impact of a pandemic, it could be. We still have to be careful in looking at this phenomenon," Dicky said.

NusantaraPol - Indonesian-made ships are increasingly in demand. The Maritime Transportation Authority of the Union of Comoros Government purchased a Landing Craft Tank (LCT) type freighter from a shipbuilding company in Samarinda City, East Kalimantan.

This LCT transport ship with a capacity of 800 tons – an original Indonesian production vessel – was previously an Indonesian-flagged vessel under the name Anugerah Perdana 36. After being purchased by the Union of Comoros, the IDR 21 billion (USD 1.45 million) ship was later changed its name to Falk Njema.

According to a press release from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday (5/5/2022), the purchase of the ship was facilitated by the Indonesian Embassy in Antananarivo, Madagascar, which has accreditation areas covering Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles, and the Union of Comoros. 

"We are delighted because the Indonesian Embassy in Antananarivo can contribute to increasing Indonesia's trade cooperation with the Comoros Union. The purchase of the Landing Craft Tank type Falk Njema is proof of the increased economic relations between the two countries," said Benny Yan Pieter Siahaan as Head of the Indonesian Representative Office in Antananarivo-Madagascar concurrently with the Comoros Union.

The Comoros Union Government Technical Team has carried out a direct inspection. Currently, the transport ship Falk Njema with a length of 67 meters and a width of 12 meters, has been sailing on its way to the Union of Comoros since April 25, 2022. The ship is expected to take approximately 1 month to arrive at Moroni, the capital of the Union of Comoros.

The Union of Comoros is an island nation in the Indian Ocean located between the mainland of the African continent and the island of Madagascar. The African countries closest to the Union of Comoros are Mozambique and Tanzania. Moroni, the capital of the Union of Comoros, is located on the Greater Comoros Island – besides that, there are other main islands, such as Mayotte Island, Greater Comoros, Anjouan, and Moheli.

The Falk Njema ship will later be used as transportation for inter-island sea shipping in the Union of Comoros. The Union of Comoros has recently experienced a crisis in meeting basic needs due to the scarcity of inter-island transportation. With the completion of the ship purchase process, the Government of the Union of Comoros hopes that one of the food distribution problems can be resolved.

According to Benny, the Head of the Indonesian Representative Office in Antananarivo, after purchasing the Falk Njema, the Government of the Comoros Union will explore the acquisition of other ships from Indonesia, especially for cargo and barge variants.

"This is part of the Economic Diplomacy effort carried out intensely and continuously by the Antananarivo Embassy," said Benny.

NusantaraPol - Indonesian Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) managed to thwart the sale and purchase of sea turtle eggs carried by an owner of Facebook account 'SDM' on a Facebook group.

The sea turtle egg is one of the protected marine animal objects, and the trade of such objects is prohibited by Indonesian laws.

"The Morowali Marine and Fishery Resources Supervision Team (PSDKP) succeeded in thwarting the online sale and purchase of protected sea turtle eggs," said the Director-General of Marine and Fishery Resources Supervision, Rear Admiral TNI Adin Nurawaluddin, who confirmed the incident.

Lepidochelys olivacea hatchling. Source: Wikimedia.

In a press statement received by InfoPublik on Thursday (5/5/2022), Adin explained that "AK" a resident of Wosu Village, Bungku City, Morowali Regency, Central Sulawesi, who is the owner of a Facebook account 'SDM' has been named a suspect. 

The perpetrator's actions to trade eggs of protected animals were successfully thwarted on Monday (25/4/2022).

“Our team managed to secure the turtle eggs before they were sold by the suspect. We will then return the eggs to their habitat so they can breed, "said Adin.

It is further said that the illegal trade of protected marine animals is now increasingly being conducted on social media platforms and e-commerce marketplaces. Although several platforms have implemented bans on illegal trade services, up to now, protected marine animals are still being traded on these platforms.

"From the findings of this case, we will implement a surveillance strategy by intensifying the monitoring of buying and selling activities using social media and e-commerce marketplaces," said Adin.

Furthermore, it was added that the ministry encourages community collaboration with active users of social media and e-commerce marketplaces to report the existence of illegal trading activities of protected marine animals.

"We encourage the public using social media and e-commerce marketplaces to immediately report to us if they find uploads of buying and selling protected marine animals on the platform," said Adin.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries also intensively implements public education programs related to the prohibition of trade in protected animals, especially for former perpetrators, so that they do not re-offend.

Six of the seven species of sea turtles in the world are found in Indonesian waters. They are Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), Olive Ridley Sea Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta), and Flatback Sea Turtle (Natator depressa).

Previously, the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KP), Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, had reiterated the strict prohibition of the trade of protected marine animals because it is against Indonesia's blue economy policy for the development of marine and fishery resources. In addition, Government Regulation Number 7 of 1999 concerning Preservation of Plant and Animal Species prohibits the trade of sea turtles, dead or alive. The same regulation also banned the sale and purchase of sea turtles' body parts.

NusantaraPol - Ketupat is a unique dish from Indonesia that is an inseparable part of the Eid al-Fitr celebration. It is a fragrant Javanese rice cake packed inside a diamond-shaped container of woven palm leaf pouch usually eaten to celebrate this holiday.

Serving ketupat during Eid is a mandatory ritual for Muslims in Indonesia. Celebrating Eid al-Fitr without eating ketupat and chicken or goat curry would be like Thanksgiving without turkey.

The presence of Ketupat in the Indonesian archipelago is believed to have existed since the 15th or 16th century. The dish was invented around the time of Sunan Kalijaga, an influential cleric who incorporated Islamic symbols into Javanese culture in a peaceful effort to spread the religion. 

There was a culture of two 'Bakda' or two feast days, namely Bakda Lebaran and Bakda Kupat. Bakda Lebaran is a celebration of Eid itself, while Bakda Kupat is celebrated one week after Eid. Some areas in Java still celebrate it today. Back in the day, almost every house in Java was seen weaving ketupat shells from young coconut leaves before Eid. Nowadays, woven ketupat shells are commonly sold on the streetside before Eid.

The Meaning of Ketupat

Based on Javanese philosophy, ketupat has a special meaning, namely 'kupat', an abbreviation of 'ngaku lepat', which means confessing to a mistake or apologizing. On Eid al-Fitr day, after 30 days of Ramadan fasting, Indonesians would ask for forgiveness from each other, a tradition called Halalbihalal or Sungkeman. Ketupat is a symbolic dish that represents this tradition.

Not only a symbol of forgiveness, but ketupat also means 'laku papat', which translated as four actions. These four actions are Lebaran, Luberan, Leburan, and Laburan.

Lebaran has a root from a Javanese word that means after. It signifies the end of fasting time, the day after Ramadan is over. Many Indonesians nowadays would refer to Eid al-Fitr as Lebaran. 

Luberan means the abundance or excess wealth that must be shared with the poor. At the end of Ramadan, often the last day of fasting, people would give charity to the poor in uncooked rice or money. This type of donation is part of Islamic tenets, Zakat Fitrah.

Leburan means melting away. At the end of Ramadan, Indonesian Muslims believe that their sins have been forgiven, melting away. As it is the day for giving and asking forgiveness, Indonesian people set aside their conflicts to purify their hearts.

Meanwhile, Laburan, means limestone powder. It signifies purity. After fasting, giving charity, and forgiving each other, Indonesian Muslim believe that their hearts have been cleansed and become as white as the limestone.

Thus, as people eat ketupat, so goes in those four Islamic values.

However, historians do not deny that ketupat has roots in an older era, namely the Hindu-Buddhist era. Even during the pre-Islamic times, palm and rice are already the main staples of the Indonesian people. In fact, in Bali, an island with a Hindu majority, ketupat has always been used in worship rituals, further corroborating the claim. The Balinese call it Tipat.

Foods That Go Well With Ketupat

This ketupat culinary tradition then spread in various regions in Indonesia. Each area has its own different presentations and unique characteristics. Here are five Indonesian menus that are often served with ketupat!

#1 Opor Ayam - Chicken Braised in Coconut Milk!

Opor is a yellow coconut milk gravy typical in Indonesia and is perfect to complement ketupat. The chicken used is usually marinated with yellow spices, especially turmeric, so that this dish has a rich and savory taste.

#2 Sayur Godog - Unique Vegetable Curry from Jakarta

For most Betawi people, indigenous people of Jakarta, Eid is incomplete without the presence of Sayur Godog. This vegetable coconut milk has become a hereditary tradition as a complement when eating ketupat. Sayur godog contains long beans, green beans, soybeans, and tofu paired with crackers and chili sauce.

#3 Jackfruit Curry from Medan

Jackfruit curry is a typical food originating from Medan, which is often juxtaposed with ketupat. This Medan curry has a blend of tauco and kecombrang flavors that make it distinctive and yummy.

#4 Kuah Labu - Pumpkin Curry from Aceh!

This authentic food from Aceh becomes a delicious combination when eaten with ketupat, a savory blend of beef ribs and water pumpkin cooked in coconut milk sauce, which is rich in spices. This pumpkin curry is a mandatory dish during Eid for the Veranda of Mecca, Aceh's monicker.

#5 Woku Chicken from Manado

This delicious dish originates from Manado. The spicy and savory Woku chicken is prepared with various spices. The thick gravy of Woku chicken does not come from coconut milk but from candlenut! Besides chickens, Woku curry can also blend well with fish and beef.

Source: Indonesia.go.id - Aneka Menu Nusantara Pendamping Ketupat Lebaran

NusantaraPol - Indonesian government through Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, announced that the implementation of nationwide Level 3 Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM) during Christmas and New Year has been canceled. 

Luhut said the government would apply more balanced rules as an alternative. "The level of PPKM implementation during Nataru (Christmas and New Year) will continue to follow the assessment of the pandemic situation as currently applies, but with some tightening," he continued. 

Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. (Photo: InfoPublik)

He also mentioned that there were several reasons behind the cancellation of the implementation of the Level 3 restriction.

First, Indonesia has so far managed to keep the number of daily Covid-19 confirmed cases stably below 400 cases. The coverage for the first dose of vaccination in Java-Bali has reached 76 percent and the second dose is approaching 56 percent.

Then, vaccination for the elderly continues to be boosted until now, reaching 64 and 42 percent, respectively, for the first and second doses in Java-Bali.

Previously, the plan for Level 3 restriction for the Christmas and New Year period was to be implemented throughout Indonesia from December 24, 2021, to January 2, 2022.  This plan has been canceled.

Luhut emphasized that later there will be an evaluation from the Ministry of Home Affairs as well as government circulars which previously served as the basis for implementing Level 3 restriction.

"Detailed changes will be outlined in the revised Domestic Instruction (Inmendagri) and circular letters (SE) related to Christmas and New Year," he said.

Furthermore, Luhut also provides a brief outline of the new rules that will be implemented during Christmas and the coming new year.

First, during Christmas and New Year, domestic long-distance travelers have to complete vaccination and bring negative antigen test results, maximum of 1×24 hours before departure.

For adults who have not been fully vaccinated or cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons are not allowed to travel long distances.

Second, children can travel but have to bring valid negative test results.

Third, the government has also implemented a ban on all types of New Year celebrations in hotels, shopping centers, malls, tourist attractions, and other public crowded places.

Fourth, the operation of shopping centers, restaurants, cinemas, and tourist attractions is only permitted with a maximum capacity of 75 percent. Only people with the green category in the PeduliLindung tracing application are allowed to enter.

"As for social and cultural events, the maximum number of people allowed is 50 people. The discipline of using PeduliLindung must be enforced,” explained Luhut.

Omicron Variant Concern

Meanwhile, the Director of Prevention and Control of Direct Infectious Diseases at the Ministry of Health, Siti Nadia Tarmizi, said that the cancellation of the nationwide restriction has considered the spread of the B.1.1.529 or Omicron variant.

The variant is now detected in 45 countries around the world. "This has also been discussed, consulted with epidemiologists," said Nadia when contacted by Kompas.com, Tuesday (7/12/2021).

Nadia said the cancellation of the Level 3 restriction is done after the government consulted epidemiologists.

Nadia also emphasized that public mobility during the Christmas and New Year holidays should still be limited.

NusantaraPol - Emergency responses after the pyroclastic avalanche of Mount Semeru are still ongoing on the fourth day. The eruption which occurred last Saturday (4/12/2021) had caused multiple loss of life and infrastructure damages. Thousands of residents are displaced due to massive volcanic material.

The latest data from the command post for the Mount Semeru disaster response on Tuesday (7/12/2021), at noon local time, shows the number of displaced residents has increased to 3,697 people. Most of the displaced residents are in Lumajang Regency, while 24 people are evacuated to Malang Regency.

Furthermore, the casualties report shows 56 injured, 17 missings, and 34 have died.  The total affected population is 5,205 people. 

President Jokowi inspects the refugee camp located in Sumberwuluh Village, Candipuro District, Lumajang, East Java, Tuesday (07/12/2021). (Photo: BPMI Setpres/Laily Rachev)

Regarding the number of missing and injured residents, the command post continues to update and validate the data.

The eruption of Mount Semeru has resulted in 2,970 housing units being affected by hot volcanic materials and pyroclastic flow. The local government is also still updating the number of houses affected and the level of the overall damage. At least 38 educational facilities are among the affected. At least one main bridge, Gladak Perak, has been cut off.

Also on Tuesday (7/12/2021), President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) visited the affected locations in Lumajang Regency. The president arrived at the Sumberwuluh Village, at 10.21 local time. President Jokowi then met the survivors, inspect the soup kitchen and health posts. On the occasion, the head of the state also directly handed compensation to the heirs of the victims who died as a result of the Semeru Volcano eruption.

In addition, the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) informed Mount Semeru of multiple volcanic earthquakes. 

The agency has also warned the public not to approach the vicinity of Mount Semeru and the threat of cold lahars flowing along the rivers connected to the mountain.

NusantaraPol - In an effort to consistently control the COVID-19 pandemic, Indonesian government has resumed the Enforcement of Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM) for area outside Java and Bali. 

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto said that activities restriction for areas outside Java-Bali will be continued until December 23, 2021.

Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto in a press statement after attending a Limited Meeting on the Evaluation of PPKM, at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta, Monday (06/12/2021). (Photo: Cabinet Secretariat/Rahmat)

"Especially outside Java-Bali, there will be an extension of PPKM (from) 7 to 23 December 2021," said Airlangga in a press statementafter attending a Limited Meeting on PPKM Evaluation led by Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. , Monday (6/12/2021).

The level of restriction for areas outside Java-Bali is based on the assessment of the pandemic situation and vaccination coverage in regencies/cities. The level of restriction for areas with vaccination coverage below 50% will be upped by one.

More regencies and cities outside of Java and Bali begin to implement level 1 and 2 restriction.

Active cases as of December 5, were 7,526. Meanwhile, daily confirmed cases as of December 5 were 196 cases and an average of 7 days (7DMA) was 250 cases.

"the entire island (reproduction rate) is below one," said.the coordinating minister.

Airlangga said that the trend of daily confirmed cases is consistently decreasing through out areas in Indonesia.

Based on spatial data outside Java-Bali, said Airlangga, the recovery rate (RR) in Sumatra reached 96.20% with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 3.58%, Nusa Tenggara RR 97.46% and CFR 2.35%, Kalimantan RR 96.79% and CFR 3.17%, Sulawesi RR 97.27% and CFR 2.64%, as well as Maluku and Papua RR 95.89% and CFR 1.75%.

Previously, activity restriction in Java and Bali area was extended on November 30, 2021 until December 30, 2021. Jakarta had increase its restriction to level 2 following low tracing rate.

NusantaraPol - Indonesia National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that as of 17:30 Western Indonesia Time, 22 people have died and 27 are missing due to the eruption of Mount Semeru.

"Update at 17:30 Western Indonesia Time, the number of victims who died is 22 people," said Abdul Muhari, Head of BNPB Disaster Data Information and Communication Center, in a virtual press conference, Monday (6/12/2021), as reported by InfoPublik.

Ash-covered landscape in an aftermath of Mount Semeru eruption, Indonesia (Photo: BNPB)

According to Muhari, 14 people died in Pronojiwo District and 8 people died in Candipuro District. As many as 9 victims who have been identified have been buried.

Meanwhile, joint teams in the field are still focused on searching for the 27 missing victims.

BNPB also noted that 2,970 housing units were damaged by Mount Semeru's hot cloud avalanches, also known as pyroclastic flow.

Previously, the Regent of Lumajang, Thoriqul Haq had declared 30 days emergency status as a respond to the eruption, starting from December 4, 2021 to January 3, 2022.

Separately, the Head of Staff of 0821 Lumajang Military District Command, Major Inf. Rinanto, asked all search and rescue personnel to prioritize personal safety in carrying out their duties.

"Prioritize the safety factor when carrying out the task of helping communities affected by the Mount Semeru  Disaster, both during the evacuation and in the search process," Rianto said while giving a mandate during the morning briefing on Monday (6/12/2021).

Nusantara Pol - Emergency rescue operations are being carried out after Mount Semeru, an active volcano in the Indonesian province of East Java, erupted on Saturday (4/12/2021) afternoon. 

Sunday morning, the regional disaster management agency (BPBD) of Lumajang Regency and the joint team are continuing the search and evacuation process for trapped and missing residents.

According to the latest information, the Head of  the National Agency for Disaster Management (BNPB), Lieutenant General TNI Suharyanto stated that a total of 13 people are reported to have died as a result of the Mount Semeru eruption.

Residents of Lumajang Regency, East Java Province evacuated due to hot cloud avalanches from Mount Semeru eruption, Saturday (4/12/2021). (Photo: BNPB)

Two bodies have been identified and belong to the residents of Curah Kobokan and Kubuan, Pronojiwo District, Lumajang Regency, East Java Province.

In addition, 41 people with injuries, especially burns, have received initial treatment at the Penanggal Health Center. Then they were then referred to Haryoto Hospital and Bhayangkara Hospital. 

Separately, other injured residents are being treated at health facilities. As many as 40 people are treated at the Pasirian Health Center, 7 people at the Candipuro Health Center, and 10 other people at the Penanggal Health Center, two of whom are pregnant women.

The joint team has also successfully evacuated trapped residents who were mentioned previously by the Lumajang Deputy Regent. These people were the mine owner's office due to volcanic materials rain. The residents have been placed in the Curah Kobokan Post for further treatment.

The pyroclastic flow and volcanic ashes have affected multiple villages and districts around Mount Semeru's vicinity. 

The Lumajang Regency BPBD also reported that there are at least 902 displaced residents spread across several various districts.

The spread of hot volcanic clouds from Mount Semeru also caused multiple houses to be buried with volcanic material. A major bridge, namely Gladak Perak, in Curah Kobokan has been cut off. The bridge linked Lumajang and Malang.

The Lumajang Regency BPBD uses a heavy wheel loader to reopen Curah Kobokan road access and carry out further data collection related to other material losses due to this disaster.

According to the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), Mount Semeru is on level II or 'alert' status. The air quality in the vicinity of eruption is low due to volcanic ash contamination. Elderly, pregnant women, disabled, and children are a group of people that may be significantly affected.

Visual monitoring also shows that hot pyroclastic avalanches have stopped due to rainy conditions around the peak of Mount Semeru's lava dome. 

The relevant agencies are closely monitoring the volcanic acclivities of Mount Semeru. The disaster management agency has warned the public not to perform any activities near rivers where the hot pyroclastic cloud could flow. Cold lava also presents a significant risk because of the rainy condition.

This article is about an ongoing event, the content may change to reflect new information.

Nusantara Pol - An active volcano in Lumajang Regency, East Java, Mount Semeru erupted on Saturday (5/12/2021) afternoon. Multiple videos circulating on Twitter and other social media showed scared residents running to save themselves as massive volcanic cloud raising in the background.

As of midnight, Detik reported that the Mount Semeru eruption has left 1 person dead in the Curah Kobokan area. At least 41 residents have suffered from burns due to pyroclastic flow, 2 of whom are pregnant women.

The victims are being treated at local health centers and hospitals for intensive care because of burns on their faces, hands, feet, and or all over their bodies.

Mixture of rain and volcanic materials could cause dangerous cold lava flow. (Photo: InfoPublik)

 As many as 10 people in Curah Kobokan, Lumajang Regency, are still trapped. The evacuation is hampered by a combination of eruption materials and rain which become thick mud.

"The evacuation is slow because cars could not enter the location. Because the mud is knee-deep," said Deputy Regent of Lumajang, Indah Amperawati Masdar, Saturday (4/12/2021), quoted from Detik. 

Lumajang Regency Government is being assisted by the Jeep car community to attempt evacuation of the trapped residents. 

Additionally, one of the bridges connecting Lumajang Regency and Malang Regency, namely the Gladak Perak Bridge, is cut off after being hit by Semeru eruption material.

Indah added that around 300 families from Curah Kobokan had been evacuated. Houses have been reportedly destroyed or damaged.

No Flight Disruption

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation of the Ministry of Transportation ensures that flights at Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport in Malang and Juanda International Airport in Surabaya will continue to operate normally, after the eruption of Mount Semeru in Lumajang Regency, East Java on Saturday (4/12/2021).

"We will continue to intensively monitor the development of the eruption of Mount Semeru by involving AirNav Indonesia, the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) and the Airport Operator. For flights at Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport in Malang, until now it is still running normally," said Director General of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Transportation, Novie Riyanto, Saturday, quoted from InfoPublik (4/12/2021).
 

Nusantara Pol - On Saturday afternoon (4/12/2021), Mount Semeru in the East Java Province, Indonesia, spewed hot cloud avalanches. The volcanic material, which was first observed at 15.20 WIB, falls in the direction of Besuk Kobokan, Sapitarang Village, Pronojiwo District, Lumajang.

From National Agency for Disaster Management website, the record of Mount Semeru eruptions can be traced back to 1818.

Thick volcanic cloud as a result of Mount Semeru Explosion. (Photo: BNPB)

However, from 1818 to 1913 the record does not document many volcanic activities. Then in 1941-1942 significant volcanic activities were recorded.

The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) stated that the lava flow occurred in the period from September 21, 1941, to February 1942. At that time the eruption reached the eastern slope with a height of 1,400 to 1,775 meters. Volcanic material to pile up the Bantengan irrigation post.

More volcanic activities were recorded in succession in 1945, 1946, 1947, 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955 – 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960.

Then, on December 1, 1977, Mount Semeru erupted once again and spewed lava and hot clouds avalanches with a distance of up to 10 km in Besuk Kembar.

The observed volume of volcanic material deposits reached 6.4 million m3. Hot clouds also launched to the Besuk Kobokan area. At that time rice fields, bridges and houses were damaged.  Volcanic activities continued and were recorded in 1978 – 1989.

PVMBG also recorded Semeru volcanic activity in 1990, 1992, 1994, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2007, and 2008.

In 2008, several eruptions were recorded, namely between May 15 to May 22, 2008. Observed on May 22, 2008, four hot cloud avalanches fell to the Besuk Kobokan area with a sliding distance of 2,500 meters.

According to PVMBG data, the main activity of Mount Semeru is in the Jonggring Seloko crater. This crater is located on the southeast side of the peak of Mahameru, the other name of Semeru. 

The eruption of Mount Semeru is categorized as Vulcanian and Strombolian type which occurs 3-4 times every hour. The character of a Vulcanian eruption is in the form of an explosive eruption that can destroy a previously formed lava dome and tongue. Meanwhile, the character of a Strombolian eruption is usually the formation of new crates and lava tongues.

Currently, Mount Semeru is at level II or 'alert' status with the following recommendations.

Indonesia Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) observed two incandescent lava avalanches from Mount Semeru with a sliding distance of approximately 500 meters to 800 meters. 

"Two incandescent lava avalanches were observed with a sliding distance of approximately 500 to 800 meters," said PVMBG Officer Yuda Prinardita Pura in a written statement, as quoted from InfoPublik, Saturday (4/12/2021).

Thick volcanic cloud can be observed on the background as a result of Mount Semeru eruption (4/12/2021). (Photo: InfoPublik)

Mount Semeru, located in Lumajang Regency, East Java Province, erupted and spews colossal hot clouds and thick volcanic ash on Saturday afternoon (4/12/2021). Dozens of residents in Sumberwuluh Village, Lumajang Regency, East Java, reportedly began to flee and immediately evacuate due to the incident.

Volcanic ash rain has caused several areas in Pronojiwo and Candipuro sub-districts to be dark as night. The local government will open evacuation posts in Kamar Kajang and Pronojiwo area. 

Yuda has asked the public not to move within a one-kilometer radius of Mount Semeru's crater. 

The public has also been told to not approach within five kilometers radius to the crater opening in the southeast-south sector and to be aware of hot clouds avalanches, lava, and lahars along rivers or valleys that flow from the top of Mount Semeru.

The restriction radius will be evaluated continuously to anticipate changes in the threat of danger. In addition, the public is also asked to stay away from areas affected directly by hot cloud material because currently the temperature is still high and to be aware of the additional hot cloud slides along the valley of the Besuk Kobokan.

"Be aware of the threat of lahars in the river channel or valley that originates in Mount Semeru considering the large amount of volcanic material that has been formed," Yuda said. 

Mount Semeru, which has a height of 3,676 meters and is the highest peak on Java Island, was reported to have started erupting at approximately 15.00 Western Indonesia Time. Intense volcanic activities in the form of hot clouds avalanches and volcanic ash rain were visually confirmed by Semeru Volcano Observational Post.

Based on data from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), Mount Semeru experienced increased volcanic activity with hot clouds falling towards Besuk Kobokan, Pronojiwo District, Lumajang Regency, East Java, at approximately 15.20 WIB.

There have been no reports of casualties. Visually, Mount Semeru is still covered in fog accompanied by moderate-intensity rain. Meanwhile, the relevant agencies are still recording the material losses and other impacts from the Mount Semeru eruption.

 Additionally, there has been no report of flight disruption.

"As of 17.30 WIB today, there is no significant impact from the eruption of Mount Semeru on the operation of flight navigation services by AirNav Indonesia, both at the Surabaya Branch, Denpasar Branch, Semarang Branch, Yogyakarta Branch and Solo Branch," said Rosedi, Corporate Secretary of AirNav Indonesia, as quoted from InfoPublik, Saturday (4/12/2021).

In order to fulfill the rights of persons with disabilities, the government has come up with various regulations, both Presidential Regulations and Government Regulations.

Then, a few days ago, the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has also inaugurated the membership of the National Commission for Disabilities which is tasked with monitoring, evaluating, and advocating for the implementation of the rights of disabled persons.

The committee will ensure that programs related to persons with disabilities can be identified systematically and measurably.

“I remind that the existence of regulations and committees that support (people with) disability are very important, but those are not enough. It is very important for us to implement these regulations," said the President in his remarks at the International Day of Disabled Persons, Friday (3/12/2021), as quoted from InfoPublik.

President Jokowi commemorates International Day for Disabled Persons 2021. (Photo:BPMI Setpres)

President Jokowi realizes that implementing these regulations is not easy, especially in the difficult situation during the current pandemic which also impacts the economic capacity of disabled persons, especially those who work in the informal sector.

"However, the challenges during the pandemic also provide opportunities to create new innovations, including the transformation of policies and programs that ensure the inclusion of persons with disabilities," he added.

Therefore, the President asked ministries/agencies as well as local governments to continue to innovate to implement the rights disabled persons by involving families and communities, as well as carrying out residential work that is integrated with various social welfare service programs.

"Persons with disabilities must be invited to use adaptive technology, for example the provision of assistive devices and business tools for people with disabilities, be it wheelchairs, three-wheeled motorbikes, and adaptive guide sticks," he said.

In addition, added the Head of State, persons with disabilities can also be involved in productive activities, such as assembling wheelchairs, tricycles, as well as making adaptive guide sticks.

The activities will provide space and opportunity as well as accessibility to develop disabled persons' potentials, as an important asset to help themselves at the same time contribute to society and the environment.

“What must also be prioritized, are the facilitation of self-improvement, formal and informal education, access for disabled persons to continue upskilling and reskilling. Access for disabled persons to obtain employment and entrepreneurship opportunities must continue to be facilitated and improved. Not only improving the capacities of individuals with disabilities, strengthening the capacity of social institutions, cooperatives, and MSMEs that employ people with disabilities must continue to be supported and given incentives," he said.

At the end of his speech, the President emphasized that commitment and service to person with disability is a measure of the progress of a nation's civilization.

“I need to remind you, commitment and service to disability is a measure of the progress of a nation's civilization. Indonesia as a big nation must continue to improve its civilization," he said.

Indonesia is going use the G20 presidency to strengthen world solidarity in tackling climate change. Indonesia will also show its strong and concrete commitment to solve the issue in front of the G20 members. This sentiment was expressed by President Joko Widodo during his visit to Mangrove Conservation Forest, in Pemogan, Denpasar City, Bali on Thursday (2/12/2021).

"This is a place that we want to show, namely mangrove forests with mangrove nurseries. We will later show that Indonesia has a strong commitment to (solve) climate change," said President Jokowi, as quoted from Cabinet Secretariat (2/12/2021).

President Joko Widodo and First Lady Iriana Joko Widodo visit the Mangrove Conservation Forest, in Pemogan, South Denpasar, Denpasar City, Thursday (02/12/2021). (Photo: BPMI Setpres/Laily Rachev)

This mangrove forest is one of the places that will be shown to the leaders of the G20 countries during the next G20 Summit in which will be held in Bali.

"This will be shown later, that we are serious about restoring mangrove forests, rehabilitating mangrove forests, restoring peat forests, and restoring critical lands in our country. I think that commitment is what we want to show concretely, in real terms on the ground," said the Indonesian Head of State.

Previously, on various occasions, the President Jokowi has emphasized the government's commitment to continue to restore and protect mangrove forests, both through the Ministry of Environment & Forestry and the Peat and Mangrove Restoration Agency (BRGM).

"We will continue to carry out mangrove rehabilitation, both by BRGM and also by the Ministry of Environment & Forestry. Our target in 2021 is approximately 34 thousand hectares throughout the country," said the President after planting mangroves with the community, in Cilacap Regency, Central Java, last September.

Not only in Cilacap, in the same month, the Head of State also carried out similar activities in a number of areas in the country, including in Bengkalis Regency, Riau and Batam City, as well as Riau Islands. 

Then in October, President Jokowi again planted mangroves, this time in Tana Tidung Regency, North Kalimantan. On that occasion the Head of State invited a number of ambassadors from friendly countries. 

Additionally, during the historic COP26 Summit on Climate Change in Glasgow last November, President Jokowi expressed Indonesia's commitment to rehabilitate 600,000 ha of mangrove forest.

Nusantara Pol - Indonesian government through the Ministry of Trade guarantees the availability of national rice needs. Indonesian Bureau of Logistics (Bulog) has consistently absorbed grain and rice from domestic farmers throughout 2021.

The Minister of Trade, Muhammad Lutfi, stated that the last general rice import permit was issued in 2018, for the purpose of fulfilling government's rice reserves. Meanwhile, in 2019, 2020 and 2021, the Ministry of Trade did not issue rice import permits for public purposes. 

President Jokowi during a dialogue with farmers in Trenggalek, East Java, Tuesday (30/11/2021). (Photo: BPMI Setpres/Laily Rachev)

“The permits that we issued during 2019, 2020, and 2021 were relatively very small and only for special purposes that cannot be produced domestically. These include special rice for hotels, restaurants, cafes, and foreign nationals living in Indonesia, such as , Japonica, Hom Mali, special rice for diabetics such as steamed rice, as well as 100 percent broken rice for industrial raw materials," he said.

According to the Minister of Trade, the government will always strengthened national rice stock in order to maintain a balance and availability of rice supply in the market, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The government is committed to provide protection for farmers by absorbing domestic production. The Ministry of Trade also maintains supplies and price stabilization policies, especially during the eve of the National Religious Holidays of Christmas and New Year.

"For this reason, the Ministry of Trade will always coordinate with all stakeholders related to rice in ensuring the availability and stabilization of prices," he concluded.

Nusantara Pol - Spokesman for the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs & Investment, Jodi Mahardi, stated that the Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM) for Java and Bali regions are extended for 14 days. The policy will be in effect from November 30 to December 13, 2021.

"It is extended by two weeks," said Jodi as quoted from Kompas, Monday (29/11/2021).

Meanwhile, the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs & Investment, who is also the PKKM coordinator for Java-Bali, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, assured that the implementation of activity restriction in Java-Bali is still under control. 

Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs & Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. (Photo: Cabinet Secretariat)

This is indicated by the number of COVID-19 cases which has been maintained at a fairly low level. Furthermore, new confirmed cases have continued to decline by 99% since the peak of cases last July.

However, The Coordinating Minister also revealed that currently there is an increase in the effective reproduction rate or the national Rt.

Using an assessment from the World Health Organization, 10 regencies/cities have returned to level 2 restriction.

Two of them are in the Greater Jakarta area. And thus, all of areas inside DKI Jakarta have increased the restriction back to level 2.  

The level of restriction is increased back to level 2 because of the declining number of tracing (screening). 

The level 2 restriction means that most of public places' maximum capacity will be reduced to 50%. For non-essential offices, 50% of employee have to work from home.

Previously, Jakarta's restriction was downgraded to level 1 in November 2, 2021. The capital city has enjoyed low level restriction because of low COVID-19 incidences for a month.

Furthermore, all of area in Bali still maintains level 2 restriction.

Then, based on the results of the Java-Bali Google Mobility survey and the public's Expenditure Index, it shows that public's mobility has increased significantly compared to data in the 2020 Christmas and New Year period as well as the 2021 Eid Al-Fitr holiday period.

This indication, Luhut added, should be used as a reminder to be more disciplined in implementing health protocols and doing 3T (tracing, testing, and treatment).

Nevertheless, Luhut has asked the public not to panic.

"Currently, our number of testing and tracing is already much higher than in November last year. Our vaccination rate is also above 60% compared to 2020 when the vaccination program was not yet running," he said.

Luhut also reminds the public about the importance of discipline in health protocols with the support of the implementation of PeduliLindung tracing app.

"We just need to be vigilant and on guard by re-tightening the implementation of this health protocol which has begun to be neglected," he concluded.

Indonesia's Responses to Omicron Variant 

Previously on November 28, 2021, Indonesian government has decided to ban entry for foreigners who have a travel history, for the last 14 days, from countries where Omicron variants are detected. The inbound travels have been tightened and gnome sequencing has been intensified.

Epidemiologist from the Faculty of Public Health, University of Indonesia, Iwan Ariawan supports the steps taken by the government to anticipate the entry of Variant B.1.1.5.2.9 or Omicron to Indonesia.

The government's steps were taken based on input from epidemiologists spread across various universities. 

"We agree because it has been discussed with us, we have discussed with the government, the best action we can take at this time," said Iwan in a press statement delivered virtually, Sunday (11/28/2021) night.

To prevent the entry of the Omicron Variant, the government prohibits the entry of foreigners who have a history of travel for the last 14 days to eleven countries. They are South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Namibia and Hong Kong.

"In the next two weeks, we will see what developments are like, we will discuss again what the best preventive measures for Indonesia are," he said. 

Meanwhile, Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin said that Indonesia already has a network of laboratories capable of detecting new variants of COVID-19 quickly.

“The world and Indonesia are now much faster and more sophisticated at identifying new variants. It is this new variant that causes the spike. So every time there is an Alpha, Beta, Delta, every time there is a new variant there is always a spike," he said.

The Minister of Health explained that the Omicron variant was first identified by GISAID (Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data) on November 9, 2021.

After that, on November 24, 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) determined the status of Variant under Investigation (VuI) and on November 26 2021 upgraded to Variant of Concern (VoC).

Indonesia then immediately followed up on the status of the Omicron Variant on November 28.

“Why does it become a variant of concern so fast? Because it has so many mutations and dangerous mutations from the previous variants are here. There are about 50 mutations," he said.

Until now, the Omicron variant has not been detected in Indonesia.

Indonesian government recognizes the fact that Covid-19 pandemic has not ended and is still a threat to world. With the emergence of a new variant, namely Omicron, anticipation and mitigation need to be prepared as early as possible.

To prevent disruptions on structural reform program and national economic recovery, Indonesia is to design the 2022 State Budget with those facts in mind.

This was conveyed by President Joko Widodo during the Submission of the Budget Implementation List, at the State Palace, Jakarta, Monday, November 29, 2021. 

President Jokowi handed over DIPA and the 2022 TKDD Allocation List Book, at the State Palace, Jakarta, Monday (29/11/2021) afternoon. (Photo: BPMI Setpres/Lukas)

"Facing the uncertainty of 2022, we must design a budget for 2022 that is responsive, anticipatory, and flexible. Always innovating and anticipating various changes that occur while maintaining good governance," said the President.

The Head of the State views that the 2022 State Budget has a central role. As the holder of the G20 presidency, Indonesia must demonstrate its ability to deal with climate change, especially in reducing emissions and moving to improve the environment in a sustainable manner.

"We have to show real action, our commitment to a green and sustainable economy," he added.

In addition, the 2022 State Budget must also encourages the revival of the national economy and support structural reforms. 

The President emphasized that the government will focus on six main policies. They are:

• First, continue controlling Covid-19 while still prioritizing the health sector.  
• Second, maintaining the sustainability of social protection programs for the poor and vulnerable.
• Third, the improvement of superior human resources. 
• Fourth, continue infrastructure development and improve technology adaptability. 
• Fifth, strengthening fiscal decentralization to increase and distribute welfare among regions. 
• Sixth, continuing budgeting reform by implementing zero-based budgeting to make spending more efficient.

"Once again in 2022, we must continue to prepare ourselves to face the risk of the Covid pandemic which is still looming over the world and our country, Indonesia. Uncertainty in the health and economic sectors must be our basis in planning and implementing programs," he said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani, during the same occasion, explained that the increased consumption and production activities will become a provision to enter 2022.

“Our Consumer Confidence Index has started to recover even before the onset of Covid. Our PMI (Purchasing Managers Index) has also increased with the ability to manage Delta variants. Likewise with the growth of other indicators that are quite strong, such as exports, imports, and electricity consumption," explained the Minister of Finance.

Furthermore, the Minister of Finance explained that the 2022 State Budget is prepared with the assumption of these criteria:

•  5.2% economic growth
• 3% inflation
• An exchange rate of Rp. 14,350 per US dollar
• Interest rates for 10-year state securities at 6.8%
• Oil prices at 63 dollars per barrel
• Oil production volume at703,000 barrels per day
• Gas production volume at 1,000,036 barrels per day

For the targets to be achieved in 2022, namely the unemployment rate, it is expected to decline at the level of 5.5 to 6.3%. 

The poverty rate is expected to fall below 9% again, which is between 8.5 and 9%. 

Gini ratio will improve at 0.376 to 0.378. The human development index will continue to increase from 73.41 to 73.46. 

The farmer's exchange rate will be kept above 100, i.e. 103 to 105, and the fisherman's exchange rate at 104 to 106.

"For next year, state revenue, in accordance with the law, is IDR 1,846.1 trillion. Consisting of IDR 1,510 trillion from taxation, IDR 335 trillion from non-tax state revenue, and IDR 0.6 trillion of grants. Next year's state spending will reach IDR 2,714.2 trillion, of which the central government will spend IDR 1,944.5 trillion and regional government of IDR 769.6 trillion. Next year, we will still experience a deficit of 4.85% of GDP or Rp. 868 trillion,” said the Minister of Finance.

Nusantara Pol - Indonesia responds to the spread of the new Omicron Variant (B.1.1.5.2.9) which has been detected in 13 countries. The new variant has been designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a variant of concern. Thus, Indonesian government has decided to tighten the provisions for the arrival of travelers from abroad.

This was conveyed by the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, in a press statement delivered virtually, Sunday (11/28/2021), as quoted from Cabinet Secretariat website.

Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan (top left). (Photo: Setkab)

“Until today, 13 countries have announced that they have detected/confirmed probable cases of this Omicron variant in their countries, starting from South Africa and Botswana. This Omicron variant has been found in Germany, Belgium, England, Israel, Australia and Hong Kong," said Luhut.

Luhut added that there is a possibility this variant has spread to more countries.

Indonesian government has decided to ban entry for foreigners who have a travel history for the last 14 days to eleven countries, namely:

• South Africa
• Botswana
• Namibia
• Zimbabwe
• Lesotho
• Mozambique
• Eswatini
• Malawi
• Angola
• Zambia
• Hong Kong

"The list of these countries can increase or decrease based on periodic evaluations carried out by the government," said Luhut.

Indonesian citizens who have a travel history from these 11 countries are allowed to enter Indonesia and will be quarantined for 14 days.

Meanwhile, Indonesian citizens and foreign nationals who come from countries other than those listed will be quarantined for 7 days.

"It will be implemented starting November 29, 2021 at 00.01," explain Luhut.

Luhut also stated that Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Health, will also increase the implementation of genome sequencing, especially for positive cases with a history of travel from abroad.

“The public does not need to panic in responding to this Omicron Variant. The government has taken steps to tighten arrivals from abroad and will increase genome sequencing activities to detect this Omicron Variant," he said.

Luhut emphasized that the government policy is taken after receiving input from epidemiologists who from time to time become government partners in making decisions regarding the handling of COVID-19 in the country.

“The government has taken these steps to tighten borders and arrivals from abroad as a precautionary measure to prevent/inhibit this Omicron variant from entering Indonesia. These policies can be re-evaluated when our understanding of the Omicron Variant can be better through ongoing studies," he said.

Closing his press statement, the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs reminded all parties to remain disciplined in implementing health protocols, supported by the implementation of PeduliLindung tracing apps.

"Health protocol discipline, which has recently decreased compared to the previous months, we ask once again that we all remind each other that the use of masks, washing hands, maintaining distance, and also vaccinations must be strictly adhered to," concluded Luhut.

Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin asked the public not to panic following the new variant of the corona virus B.1.1.529 or Omicron which was first discovered in South Africa.

"So we don't need to panic too much, (or) rush to take policies that are not data-based," Budi said in a virtual press conference, Sunday (11/28/2021), as quoted from Kompas.

Budi assured the public that Indonesia and the world are now working fast in identifying any new variants of the corona virus that appear. Thus, if a new variant emerges, the government can immediately take action to anticipate it.

"We want to ensure that the lab's network capabilities are able to see its spread in the world, identify it quickly, and make us respond to policies quickly," Budi said.